In 2003, I had to stop work because I had a chronic illness. I started to get better in 2010 and at the end of 2011, I did a Tefl course. In January 2012, I started as a volunteer tutor for a further education college and a year later I was offered paid employment there.
As I had already worked there for a year there was no formal application process, so I never had to explain the gap from 2003-12.
Now, I’m applying for jobs elsewhere and I don’t know what I should do about this gap as I fear disclosing it may go against me. Teaching is a tough job and fitness and stamina does play a part, although I am now completely recovered.
I love the job and feel I am coping well, but I can’t get over my worries about somehow doing myself down in the application process.
